Veteran filmmaker and former CBFC chief Pahlaj Nihalani is no more. There is a wave of mourning in the film industry after his death at the age of 76. On one hand, he established himself as a successful producer with hit films like 'Aankhen', 'Shola Aur Shabnam', 'Andaz', while on the other hand, his tenure as CBFC Chairman was full of controversies. He was constantly in the news for censorship, cuts and bans. But do you know that he also laid the foundation for the careers of many superstars? This is the reason why his name was always in debate.
Pahlaj Nihalani was born in 1950 and played an active role in Bollywood for more than four decades. He started as a producer in 1982 with the film 'Hathkadi'. After this, he gave many commercial hit films like 'Ilzaam', 'Aag Hi Aag', 'Paap Ki Duniya', 'Shola Aur Shabnam', 'Aankhen', 'Andaz' and 'Talaash'. Especially 'Aankhen' is considered one of the biggest blockbuster films of the 90s.
Nihalani was not only a filmmaker but also a talent spotter. He launched Govinda with the film 'Ilzaam', while gave a chance to Chunky Pandey with 'Aag Hi Aag'. Both these artists later made their strong mark in Bollywood. For this reason, Nihalani is also remembered as a producer who gives opportunities to new faces.
From 2015 to 2017, he was the Chairman of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). During this period, his tenure was full of controversies. There was huge protest in the industry regarding cuts, certification and strict rules in films. There was fierce debate on his policies regarding films like 'Udta Punjab', 'Lipstick Under My Burkha' and 'Spectre'. Many filmmakers also criticized him, while he always explained his decisions as per the rules.
Pahlaj Nihalani was not only the CBFC chairman but also the head of the Producers Association for three decades. He strengthened commercial entertainment in Hindi cinema and gave direction to the careers of many big stars. His decisions had a long-term impact on the Indian film certification system.
Pahlaj Nihalani's image was that of a successful but controversial film personality. On one hand, he gave hit films and created stars, while on the other hand, his decisions in CBFC made him one of the most talked about faces. Both his contribution and controversies give him a distinct identity in the history of Indian cinema.
